The Polisario Front Faces a New and Painful Blow with the UK’s Stance on the Trade Partnership Agreement
The Polisario Front has suffered a new and painful blow following the stance taken by the new British government under the leadership of leftist Labour leader Keir Starmer regarding the trade partnership agreement between London and Rabat, which includes the Moroccan Sahara region. The new British government has supported the continuation of the agreement without any amendments, which has been a significant disappointment for the Polisario and its supporters.
The British Government’s Position: Consistency with Previous Stance
The official website of the British House of Lords revealed the new government’s stance, responding to an inquiry from MP Ben Lake about trade activities in Western Sahara. The response came from Labour MP Hamish Falconer, who confirmed that the United Kingdom does not consider trade activity in Western Sahara illegal, provided it respects the interests of the Sahrawi people. Falconer added that Britain supports the efforts of the United Nations and its envoy to the Sahara, Staffan de Mistura, and encourages constructive participation in the political process.
Disappointment for the Polisario
The Polisario Front had hoped that the rise of the Labour Party would change the UK’s position on the Sahara issue in its favor, especially since some party members had previously expressed support for the Polisario. However, the British government’s position has significantly disappointed the Polisario, confirming the continuation of a trend that favors enhancing trade relations with Morocco, including the Sahara region.
Impact of the British Judicial Ruling
It is worth noting that the London Court of Appeal had previously rejected an appeal by NGOs supporting the Polisario (WSC), aimed at overturning the trade partnership agreement between Morocco and Britain. The court upheld its previous decision, which had rejected a similar lawsuit, thus reinforcing Morocco’s position.
In this context, Sahara issue expert Sabri Al-Hou notes that the London court decision is of utmost importance from both legal and political perspectives. Al-Hou points out that the appellate ruling is final and strengthens Morocco’s position, adding that the decision obliges all British institutions, including the executive branch, to respect Morocco’s sovereignty and treat Western Sahara as part of Moroccan territory in international agreements.
Impact on British Foreign Policy
The judicial ruling extends to British foreign policy, where this decision becomes a testament to legal and political truth. It is expected that Britain will engage with Morocco with full respect for its sovereignty and enter into agreements that cover the entire Moroccan territory, including the Sahara, without discrimination or differential treatment.
Conclusion
These developments indicate continued pressure on the Polisario Front, which is facing successive blows that confirm the international community’s, particularly major powers like Britain, determination to support Morocco’s position on the Western Sahara issue. While the Polisario seeks new international support, the challenges it faces remain deep and complex, placing it in a difficult position diplomatically and politically.
